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6 smoothie ingredients that will basically give you superpowers

March 1, 2018 |

What: PomegranateFor: Looking younger

Tucking into pomegranate juice offers some youthful rewards. Scientists have found a special molecule in pomegranates (urolithin A) that, transformed by microbes in the gut, helps your muscle cells safeguard themselves against the ravages of ageing. Tastes delicious too. 710ml for £3.60; Ocado

What: SpirulinaFor: More endurance

Sweating keeps you healthy (by expelling toxins and regulating body temperature), but researchers at Loughborough University found your immune system can get depressed after serious exercise spells. Spirulina is rich in iron, antioxidants and B12 making it an Olympic-level immune and endurance enhancer. £14.99 for 110g; Holland & Barrett

What: TurmericFor: Fewer aches

Natural anti-inflammatories don’t get more powerful than turmeric. It works on many levels and new research at the University of Nottingham found it can also ease tendonitis bysuppressing the biological mechanisms that create too much inflammation in tendons. Must be just the thing if that tennis elbow rears its head again. From £1.99; Bulk Powders

What: Beetroot juiceFor: A more youthful brain

It can increase the stamina of athletes by as much as 24% but that’s not its only asset. A new paper by Wake Forest University in the US found drinking beetroot juice before working out makes an older person’s brain perform much more efficiently. Beets also have super high levels of nitrates which increase blood flow, making sure oxygen gets to all the right places when you need it, to energise body and mind. £2.53 a litre; Waitrose

What: Cellucor C4
For: Brain focus

This pre-workout punch gives athletes an energy uptick before busting a sweat, but it’s also distilled with ingredients to uplift your grey matter. Combined with its caffeine hit, you’ll enjoy 33% more mental acuity and focus soon after taking the Nitrosigine in this supplement, best enjoyed as a cooling ice slushy. £26.99 for 12 (296ml); Predator Nutrition

What: ProteinFor: Workout gains

So you want to get into protein powder but just can’t let go of that sweet, sweet taste of chocolate? Welcome to paradise. Rich in zinc and iron, this new pea protein from Pulsin has 69% protein powder and, because you simply add milk or water, it’s ideal for any shake on the go. What’s more, it’s Pulsin so it’s gluten free, vegan friendly and non-GM. £13.49 for 250g; Pulsin

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